Ingredients
3 celery ribs, chopped2 small green peppers, chopped1 large onion, chopped2 garlic cloves, minced2-1/4 tablespoons olive oil1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce1/3 cup tomato paste1-1/2 cups water2 teaspoons minced fresh parsley4 teaspoons salt1/2 teaspoon pepper1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakesMEATBALLS:2 large eggs1 cup dry bread crumbs1/2 cup 2% milk2 tablespoons dried minced onion2 tablespoons dried parsley flakes1/2 teaspoon garlic salt1/2 teaspoon pepper2 pounds ground beef8 to 10 hot dog or sandwich buns, splitGrated Parmesan cheese, optional
Preparation
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, saute celery, green peppers, onion and garlic in oil until tender, 4-5 minutes. Add the next 8 ingredients; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 1-2 hours.
For meatballs, beat eggs in a large bowl. Add the next 6 ingredients. Crumble beef over mixture and mix lightly but thoroughly. Shape into 1-in. balls. Place meatballs on a greased rack in a shallow baking pan. Bake, uncovered, at 450° until no longer pink, 12-15 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Add to sauce; heat through. Serve on buns; top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
